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The Prunus armeniaca L. (bitter apricot) is an apricot fruit tree categorized on the basis of the bitter taste of its seed kernel. In this study, the functional, medicinal, and therapeutic potential of bitter apricot seed kernel oil (BASKO) was evaluated. The qualitative screening of BASKO was performed using standard methodologies. The chemical profile of the oil was analyzed with the help of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC‐MS). Results revealed the presence of different phytochemical constituents comprising steroids, flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, and cardiac glycosides. The antioxidant activity of the oil was determined by a 2,2,diphenyl‐1picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical inhibition essay. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were 10.6 ± 1.32 mg GAE/g and 4.75 ± 0.11 mg QE/g, respectively. DPPH inhibition of 89.5% was achieved at 1000 μg/mL of BASKO, with IC50 = 90.44 μg/mL (83.47–96.67 μg/mL with 95% CI). The antimicrobial potential of the BASKO revealed the inhibition of Escherichia coli (20.3 ± 2.08 mm), Salmonella typhi (19.3 ± 2.51 mm), Klebsiella pneumoniae (16.6 ± 1.52 mm), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (17 ± 2 mm), and Staphylococcus aureus (25 ± 1.01 mm). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value was 250 μL/mL for K. pneumoniae, S. typhi, P. aeruginosa, and S. aureus, whereas 62.5 μL/mL for E. coli. Moreover, BASKO showed antifungal potential against Trichophyton tonsurans (77.3 ± 2.08%), Epidermophyton floccosum (69.6 ± 3.51%), Aspergillus niger (74.3 ± 2.56%), Aspergillus flavus (90 ± 3%), and Mucor mucedo (78.3 ± 2.51%). Antileishmanial activity of oil was evaluated against Leishmania major by MTT assay, and an IC50 value of 89.75 μg/mL was observed. The study revealed that BASKO is a good source of biologically active compounds to be used as functional, therapeutical, and antimicrobial agents in food and pharmaceutical products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The major factors affecting the in vitro immature embryo rescue efficiencies from Prunus persica or P. armeniaca accessions have been identified, along with improving the feasibility. Variations in the woody plant medium (WPM) were used depending on the embryo size. Embryos less than 5 mm long were cultured in WPM supplemented with 1 μM BAP and 1 μM GA3, while embryos bigger than 5 mm long were cultured in hormone-free medium, with or without vermiculite. The environmental in vitro culture conditions consisted of three phases: a (I) stratification at 4 °C during a 3- to 5-month-long period in the dark, followed by (II) growth of germinated embryos at 14 °C for a 4-week-long period, with 12 h light a day, which favors plantlet development, and finally, (III) growth at 24 °C, with 16 h light a day, until the plantlets were acclimatized in the greenhouse. The germination of smaller embryos, at the end of phase I, ranged from 82.2% to 22.1% for apricots and flat peaches, respectively, whereas for bigger embryos, the germination varied from 97.3% to 53.2% for the same species. The embryo germination for peaches and nectarines ranged from 40.1% to 30.3% for smaller embryos, and from 91.9% to 63.0% for bigger embryos. Endo- and epiphytic contamination, affecting from 7.4% to 52.9% of cultured embryos, depending on the fruit type and conservation conditions, and the capacity to acclimate to soil conditions, ranging from 50.4% to 93.2%, were the two most important factors influencing the protocol's efficiency and feasibility. Considering the overall efficiencies, expressed as hardened plants transferred to field plots over clean uncontaminated embryo, the values ranged from 55.8% for nectarines, 54.0% for peaches, 45.6% for apricots, and 23.3% for flat fruits. The addition of vermiculite to the culture medium significantly improved the plantlet development, avoiding subculture to fresh medium when an extension of phase III was required before acclimatization. Compared to laboratory glassware, the use of food glass containers with air-permeable sealing film, along with vermiculite-containing medium, significantly reduced the costs when handling the large number of embryos required for breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study focuses on evaluating the enzyme inhibition (acetylcholinesterase, α-amylase, α-glucosidase, pancreatin lipase), antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities of the "Modesto" apricot, "Stanley" plum, and their hybrid the "Stendesto" plum–apricot. The "Stendesto" is the only successful plum–apricot hybrid in Bulgaria. A spectrophotometric approach was used to evaluate the antioxidant activity following four complementary assays (DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and CUPRAC). The "Stendesto" plum–apricot revealed its enhanced antioxidant potential compared to its parental lines. Apart from the free phenolics extraction, two other techniques (alkaline and acid hydrolysis) were applied to reveal the biological potential of the studied fruit. Not only free but also bound phenolic extracts were able to inhibit α-glucosidase and acetylcholinesterase, while none of the extracts inhibited lipase or α-amylase. None of the apricot extracts had antimicrobial activity, while the other fruit had limited antimicrobial activity. The proposed results undoubtedly reveal that hybrid fruits possess enhanced biological activity compared to their parents. This is a first comprehensive evaluation of hybrid fruits with reference to parental lines. This makes them an interesting research topic that should be better explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The R2R3-MYB transcription factors in plants participate in various physiological and biochemical processes and responds to various external stimuli. Prunus sibirica (known as Siberian apricot) is a drupe tree species that produces extremely high nutritional value kernels. However, it is susceptiblility to frost damage during the flowering period, results in a marked reduction in kernel yield. Results: In this study, the MYB gene family of P. sibirica (PsMYB) was systematically analyzed, and 116 R2R3-MYB genes that were distributed unevenly over eight chromosomes were ultimately screened. Phylogenetic analysis divided these 116 genes into 30 subgroups. We discovered that 37 PsMYBs had cold stress-responsive promoters, and six PsMYBs were annotated to be associated with cold response. Intraspecific homology analysis identified segmental duplication as the primary gene amplification mechanism, and homology analysis of the PsMYB genes with those of five other species revealed phylogenetic relationships with Rosaceae species. Protein interaction studies revealed collaborative regulation of the PsMYB proteins with Arabidopsis protein, and transcriptome analysis identified PsMYB genes that were highly expressed at low temperatures. Additionally, the expression levels of 22 PsMYBs in different tissue parts of P. sibirica and under different low-temperature stress conditions were evaluated using quantitative real-time PCR, with the results verifying that PsMYBs are specifically expressed in different plant parts and may be involved in the growth and development of P. sibirica species. Genes upregulated after exposure to low-temperature stress and likely involved in cold response were identified. Conclusion: This study lays a foundation for understanding the molecular biology of PsMYBs in P. sibirica and provides a theoretical basis for the future study of transgenic lines with cold resistance during the flowering period of this tree. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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In this study, it was aimed to remove Congo Red (CR) dye in aqueous solution by biosynthesized Selenium Nanoparticles from Prunus armeniaca L. (PAL‐SeNPs) leaf wastes by green synthesis method. The characteristic structure of PAL‐SeNPs was determined by UV‐vis spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetry‐differential thermal analysis (TGA‐DTA), dynamic light scattering (DLS), zetasizer, and point of zero charge (pHpzc). The effects of pH, adsorbent amount, time, initial concentration, and temperature were investigated by batch adsorption studies. 2 different kinetic and 4 isotherm models were tested and error analysis functions were determined for the most suitable model. Accordingly, the particle size, crystallinity, pHpzc value and average surface charge of PAL‐SeNPs were determined as 9.969 nm, 48.50 %, 3.47, and −23.6 mV, respectively. Also, the most suitable kinetic and isotherm models for the removal of CR dye with PAL‐SeNPs were found as Pseudo‐second‐order and Freundlich, with R2 values of 0.996, respectively. Also, where the optimum pH was 7.00, the maximum adsorption capacity was calculated as 96.59 mgCR/gPAL‐SeNPs. The results obtained show that environmentally friendly and low‐cost PAL‐SeNPs produced by the green synthesis method are a suitable alternative for the removal of CR dye. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endodormancy is one of the most studied physiological processes in perennial plants like apricot. This period is vital both for the tree survival against the adverse climatic conditions of winter and for obtaining a proper flowering and fruit set. Many studies have remarked the importance of chill accumulation as the limiting factor for endodormancy release. The increase of mean temperatures caused by climate change has been seriously endangering this process during the last decades. Because of this, plant growth regulators for promoting endodormancy release have spread worldwide. However, due to the toxicity and the irregular efficiency, there is a great necessity of developing new environment-friendly regulators for promoting endodormancy release. In this 3-year study, we applied four different commercial plant growth regulators to the Flopría apricot cultivar. Two of them, Broston® and Erger® were the most effective ones to advance endodormancy release. The physiology and biochemistry behind these treatments were studied by a non-target metabolomic and expression analysis in flower buds. Metabolic groups, like phospholipids, only varied in treated samples, whereas others like by-products of L-Phe metabolism, or ABA significantly varied in both types of samples throughout endodormancy release. Finally, to validate these results, solutions of phospholipids, phenylpropanoids, or ABA, among others, were applied for the first time to apricot trees, showing, i.e., that phospholipids treated-trees released from endodormancy two weeks earlier than control. This study aims to be an initial stage for the elaboration of environmentally safe regulators in apricot, with a potential in other Prunus and temperate fruit tree species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food and food safety have been among the most important issues for people throughout history. Societies have always tried to be self‐sufficient in food and have avoided becoming dependent on foreign sources. However, the fact that most foods are seasonal and the increasing population's food consumption have revealed the need to preserve foodstuffs for a long time. The old and well‐known method used today for extending shelf life is the drying process. The drying process is preferred over other preservation methods for reasons such as being more economical, easier to transport, having a longer shelf life, more concentrated nutritional value, and containing fewer additives. This ensures that dried foods are of higher quality in terms of physical, chemical, microbial properties, and nutritional values compared to other packaged foods. While the drying process was traditionally done over a long period, technological advancements have led to the production of higher quality and more valuable commercial products in a shorter time. In this study, traditional and technological methods used in drying apricots were compared according to the parameters determined by experts in the field. Since multiple parameters are effective in the comparison, Multi‐Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) techniques were used. The optimum apricot drying method was determined by combining the results obtained from different MCDM techniques with the Borda rule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: This study used four different apricot (Prunus armeniaca) kernels cultivated in Malatya during two consecutive years. The varieties were Hacihaliloglu, Hasanbey, Kabaasi, and Zerdali. The physicochemical properties of the kernels were determined, and the bioactive content of the kernels was evaluated using kernel hydrolysates prepared using trypsin. RESULTS: With regard to the physicochemical properties of the kernels, the dry matter ratio and protein content were the highest in the Hacihaliloglu variety; the ash ratio was the highest in the Kabaasi variety, and the free oil ratio was the highest in the Hasanbey variety. The bioactive compound content changed according to kernel variety. Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors activity was found to be the highest in the Hacihaliloglu and Hasanbey varieties, which had the lowest amygdalin content, and Zerdali had the highest amygdalin content. The antioxidant and antimicrobial effects of the kernels varied, with Hasanbey and Kabaasi generally having the highest content in both analyses. Moreover, a concentration of 20 mg mL−1 of the hydrolysate was determined to have a destructive effect for the microorganisms used in this study. The storage protein of the kernels, except Hacihaliloglu, was found to be Prunin 1, with the longest matching protein chain in the kernels being R.QQQGGQLMANGLEETFCSLRLK.E. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that the peptide sequences identified in the kernels could have antihypertensive, antioxidative, and Dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP‐IV) inhibitory effects. Consequently, apricot kernels show potential for use in the production of functional food products. Of the kernels evaluated in this study, Hacihaliloglu and Hasanbey were deemed the most suitable varieties due to their higher bioactive content and lower amygdalin content. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document explores the impact of biostimulants on horticultural crops, emphasizing the importance of food security and the challenges faced by horticultural production due to various factors. Six research articles in the Special Issue focus on different biostimulants and their effects on crops like apricots, olives, geraniums, carrots, tomatoes, and onions. The studies highlight the potential of biostimulants, including microbial and natural sources, to enhance plant growth, yield, and quality, offering sustainable solutions for horticultural practices. Further research is recommended to explore the long-term effects and scalability of biostimulants in horticulture. [Extracted from the article]

[Objective] This study explored the cytological characteristics of different developmental stages of Prunus sibirica microspores and revealed the relationships between microspore periods and floral organ morphology to provide basis for reproductive biology research and germplasm innovation of Prunus sibirica. [Method] The flower buds of male sterile and fertile lines of Prunus sibirica were selected as the research subjects. The paraffin section technique and modified carmine acetate staining technique were used to observe morphology of microspores at various development stages. Phenotypic observation and analysis of flower organ morphology were also conducted during corresponding periods. [Result] The microspore development periods of Prunus sibirica included tetrad stage, microspore period and mature stage. The microspore period included uninucleate stage (early-uninucleate stage, mid-uninucleate stage, late-uninucleate stage) and binucleate stage (early-binucleate stage, middle-binucleate stage, late-binucleate stage) with distinct cytological features in each stage. In the early-binucleate stage, the microspores of the male sterile line were abnormal due to the failure to complete mitosis, but there was no abnormality in the development of floral organs. The bud transverse diameter, bud longitudinal diameter, anther transverse diameter and anther longitudinal diameter gradually increased with the advance of microspore development stage in Prunus sibirica. There were corresponding relationships between microspore periods and morphological characteristics of floral organs. The bud transverse diameter, anther transverse diameter and anther longitudinal diameter were utilized to differentiate microspores between various microspore stages ranging from early-binucleate stage to late-binucleate stage. The color of calyx was employed to differentiate microspores between mid-uninucleate stage and late-uninucleate stage. Additionally, microspore diameter distinguished different stages of microspores from early-uninucleate stage to early-binucleate stage. At the early-binucleate stage, bud transverse diameters of male sterile line and male fertile line in Prunus sibirica were 3.36 and 3.34 mm, respectively. The anther longitudinal diameters of male sterile line and male fertile line were 0.95 and 0.96 mm, respectively. The anther transverse diameters of male sterile line and male fertile line were both 0.73 mm. The microspore diameter of male sterile line and male fertile line were both 28.90 μm. [Conclusion] The microspore period of Prunus sibirica was correlated with bud transverse diameter, anther transverse diameter, anther longitudinal diameter, and calyx color, which could be used as an important basis for dividing microspore stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the activity concentration of artificial and natural radionuclides such as 137Cs, 40K, 226Ra, and 232Th was measured in the soil under the roots; leaves; and fruits of six different fruit trees namely mulberry, fig, apricot, olive, black and white grapes in Koya district, Erbil province, Iraq. For this purpose, a high-resolution gamma spectroscopy consisting of a high-purity germanium (HPGe) detector was used. In addition, the associated radiological risks from soil and fruits were assessed by calculating several radiological indices such as radium equivalent (Raeq.s), absorbed dose (Ds), indoor (AEDEsindoor) and outdoor annual effective doses (AEDEsoutdoor), internal and external hazard indices, gamma index and the excess lifetime cancer risk (ELRCs). The results show that consuming these fruits is radiologically safe because they can cause an annual effective dose of about 61.72 μSv y−1 and excess lifetime cancer risk of 0.06 × 10−3 Sv y−1. On the other hand, transfer factors of radionuclides from soil to leaves; and from soil to fruits were studied. The transfer factor analysis revealed that among the studied fruits and radionuclides, apricot and mulberry exhibited the highest transfer factors for 40K, with values of 1.85 and 1.87, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commercially cultivated Prunus species are commonly grown in adjacent or mixed orchards and can be infected with unique or commonly shared viruses. Apple (Malus domestica), another member of the Rosacea and distantly related to Prunus, can share the same growing regions and common pathogens. Pollen can be a major route for virus transmission, and analysis of the pollen virome in tree fruit orchards can provide insights into these virus pathogen complexes from mixed production sites. Commercial honey bee (Apis mellifera) pollination is essential for improved fruit sets and yields in tree fruit production systems. To better understand the pollen-associated virome in tree fruits, metagenomics-based detection of plant viruses was employed on bee and pollen samples collected at four time points during the peak bloom period of apricot, cherry, peach, and apple trees at one orchard site. Twenty-one unique viruses were detected in samples collected during tree fruit blooms, including prune dwarf virus (PDV) and prunus necrotic ringspot virus (PNRSV) (Genus Ilarvirus, family Bromoviridae), Secoviridae family members tomato ringspot virus (genus Nepovirus), tobacco ringspot virus (genus Nepovirus), prunus virus F (genus Fabavirus), and Betaflexiviridae family member cherry virus A (CVA; genus Capillovirus). Viruses were also identified in composite leaf and flower samples to compare the pollen virome with the virome associated with vegetative tissues. At all four time points, a greater diversity of viruses was detected in the bee and pollen samples. Finally, the nucleotide sequence diversity of the coat protein regions of CVA, PDV, and PNRSV was profiled from this site, demonstrating a wide range of sequence diversity in pollen samples from this site. These results demonstrate the benefits of area-wide monitoring through bee pollination activities and provide new insights into the diversity of viruses in tree fruit pollination ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understory vegetation constitutes an essential component of the ecosystem within the coal mining area, disclosing the correlation between plant species composition and soil properties throughout the multi-year restoration process, and offering a theoretical framework for ecological restoration and reconstruction in the northwest wind-blown sand mining area. We investigated the coupling and coordination degree between the composition of understory vegetation and soil in Pinus sylvestris forests, Hippophae rhamnoides forests, and Prunus sibirica forests at different restoration stages (5 years, 10 years, 15 years) using field survey methods and indoor separation techniques. The results clearly indicate that: (1) After 15 years of recovery, a total of 32 species of herbs appeared in different plantations, belonging to 8 families and 21 genera, of which Artemisia scoparia had the highest importance value (42.85); (2) Significant differences were observed in herb diversity, soil physicochemical properties, and their relationships among different plantations (p < 0.05); (3) The vegetation–soil coupling coordination index of the plantations was as follows: P. sibirica forest (0.5111) > P. sylvestris forest (0.5069) > H. rhamnoides forest (0.4932). The vegetation status of the H. rhamnoides forest is a state of vegetation lagging development type of intermediate-level coordinated development, while the vegetation status of the P. sibirica forest and the P. sylvestris forest is barely harmonious. The status of the P. sibirica forest and P. sylvestris forest is better than that of H. rhamnoides forests. It is essential to enhance the management measures implemented in the Bulianta mine area. Appropriate tending, particularly the regulation of soil nutrients, might be more conducive to the restoration of vegetation and the improvement of forest ecosystem services in the mining area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to effectively utilize the nutrients in apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) kernel, the apricot kernel oil was extracted by two pressing methods, i.e. cold pressing method and hot pressing method. The apricot kernel oils obtained were firstly debitterized and refined, and then their physicochemical properties and oxidation activities were determined by Lovibond tintometer, Rancimat method, differential scanning calorimeter, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and gas chromatography-ion mobility mass spectrometry (GC-IMS). The results indicated that the baking pre-treatment on the apricot kernel in the hot pressing method increased the oil yield, changed the fatty acid profile, enriched the flavor characteristics, and prolonged the antioxidant properties of the oil. However, the apricot kernel oil in cold pressing method has a relatively lighter color and higher content of amygdalin. In conclusion, both cold and hot pressing methods are suitable pressing methods to obtain the apricot kernel oil that can meet people's edible standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the effects of hot air drying (HAD), infrared radiation drying (IRD), microwave vacuum drying (MVD), freeze drying (FD), and freeze drying combined with microwave vacuum drying (FD-MVD) on the drying kinetics, color, rehydration ratio, titratable acidity, and vitamin C content of small white apricots (Prunus armeniaca L.). Results showed drying times of 12.5 h (IRD), 14.1 h (FD), 16 h (HAD), 0.53 h (MVD), and 6.15 h (FD-MVD). FD-MVD significantly outperformed MVD, HAD, and IRD in color, vitamin C, titratable acidity, and rehydration, though was slightly inferior to FD. Microstructural analysis revealed that FD-MVD preserved the most uniform pore structure, better maintaining apricots' original appearance. In contrast, IRD and HAD caused severe surface shriveling, compromising quality. In conclusion, FD-MVD emerges as a promising drying method to enhance apricot quality and market competitiveness in food processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: AP2/ERF transcription factors are involved in the regulation of growth, development, and stress response in plants. Although the gene family has been characterized in various species, such as Oryza sativa, Arabidopsis thaliana, and Populus trichocarpa, studies on the Prunus sibirica AP2/ERF (PsAP2/ERF) gene family are lacking. In this study, PsAP2/ERFs in P. sibirica were characterized by genomic and transcriptomic analyses. Results: In the study, 112 PsAP2/ERFs were identified and categorized into 16 subfamilies. Within each subfamily, PsAP2/ERFs exhibited similar exon-intron structures and motif compositions. Additionally, 50 pairs of segmentally duplicated genes were identified within the PsAP2/ERF gene family. Our experimental results showed that 20 PsAP2/ERFs are highly expressed in leaves, roots, and pistils under low-temperature stress conditions. Among them, the expression of PsAP2/ERF21, PsAP2/ERF56 and PsAP2/ERF88 was significantly up-regulated during the treatment period, and it was hypothesised that members of the PsAP2/ERF family play an important role inlow temperature stress tolerance. Conclusions: This study improves our understanding of the molecular basis of development and low-temperature stress response in P. sibirica and provides a solid scientific foundation for further functional assays and evolutionary analyses of PsAP2/ERFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Locally available apricot seed shell as agro-waste was used for the preparation of adsorbents. The biochar was prepared at 370°C via pyrolysis and 80 mesh particle sizes were modified by 1N HCl. Nitrate adsorption and effect of co-ions from aqueous solution were studied under batch model using apricot seed shell powder (ASSP), apricot seed shell biochar (ASSB), and activated apricot seed shell biochar (AASSB). FTIR and pHPZC measurements were used to characterize the adsorbents. Based on the experimental findings, the optimum conditions follow pH 2, 0.3g dosage, initial concentration of 50 mg.L-1, and contact time of 90 min. The three forms of adsorbent exhibited good adsorption for nitrate. However, the maximum percentage removal of nitrate ions from the aqueous solution followed the order AASSB>ASSB>ASSP. The adsorption kinetic of nitrate ion was best fitted by pseudo 2nd order, and the parameters of adsorption isotherms elucidated favorable and improved sorption. This agro-waste could be used to develop sustainable adsorbents in water and wastewater treatment methods and has great potential to replace commercially available sorbents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial canker disease of stone fruits is a major concern in stone fruit‐growing countries worldwide. Pseudomonas spp. and Xanthomonas arboricola pv. pruni (Xap) are the primary pathogens involved in this disease. In spring, summer and autumn 2016, symptoms like those produced by Pseudomonas spp. and Xap were observed in almond, apricot, peach and nectarine orchards in central provinces of Iran (Qom, Isfahan, and Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari). Gram‐positive cocci bacterial isolates were obtained from symptomatic trees. Following hypersensitivity and pathogenicity tests, isolates were divided into pathogenic and nonpathogenic groups, demonstrating the pathogenicity of some isolates on saplings of almond, peach and apricot. Multilocus sequence analysis was performed using the partial sequence of 16S rRNA region and four housekeeping genes, namely tuf, gap, dnaJ and rpoB, to determine the taxonomic classification of isolates, and revealed that pathogenic isolates identified as Staphylococcus warneri, while nonpathogenic isolates identified as S. warneri, S. epidermidis, S. hominis and S. saprophyticus. The isolates were further characterized by phenotypic and biochemical tests as well as by antibiotics assays. The unusual nature of the identified microorganism in the present study lies in the fact that, unlike most plant‐pathogenic agents, S. warneri is recognized worldwide as a cause of bacterial infections in humans and animals. Taken together, the bacterial canker disease caused by S. warneri appears to be a newly emerging disease of apricot, peach and almond trees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apricots being highly perishable and often results in significant postharvest losses that affect their marketability and commercial viability. A study was conducted to investigate the synergistic effect of postharvest application of gamma irradiation and Methyl Jasmonate (MeJ) on the quality, enzyme-specific activities, and shelf life of the apricot (Prunus armeniaca cv. ‘CITH-1’). Apricots were gamma irradiated at a dosage of 0.5 kGy and submerged in different concentrations of MeJ before being refrigerated (1±1 °C, RH 80-85%) for 35 days. Apricots treated with a 0.5 kGy dose and 0.1 mmol L-1 MeJ followed by refrigeration significantly (P<0.05) retained higher levels of antioxidant activity. The quality of apricots was effectively preserved, and their shelf life was extended through treatments of 0.5 kGy irradiation dosage and 0.2 mmol L-1 MeJ, which significantly (P<0.05) reduced decay percentage, weight loss, and enzyme activity while maintaining fruit firmness. The study's results suggest that applying a postharvest treatment of MeJ at a concentration of 0.1 and 0.2 mmol L-1 in combination with an irradiation dosage of 0.5 kGy is a viable method for preserving the quality and bioactive compounds of fresh apricots during refrigerated storage for up to 35 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genetic diversity and evolution of plastomes in P. armeniaca L. (common/cultivated apricot) have been poorly studied. Complete plastomes of 20 accessions and 10 F1 hybrids, identified as P. armeniaca L., were de novo assembled filtering from total DNA nt reads. These plastomes were subsequently analyzed with the Prunus genus accessions retrieved from the GenBank. The plastomes exhibited conservation of genomic structure, gene organization and order, with lengths ranging from 158,057 nt to 158,089 nt, displaying a narrow size variation. Except for "Zard" and its hybrids, the plastomes of apricot genotypes from different regions showed only three haplotypes, indicating narrow genetic diversity in cultivated P. armeniaca accessions. "Zard" and its hybrids exhibited the highest identity with P. mandshurica Maxim (Manchurian apricot), demonstrating the significance of plastome analysis for the accurate identification of apricots. Further, while the three apricot species, P. armeniaca, P. mandshurica, and P. mume Sieb. (Japanese apricot), were grouped as sister clades, P. sibirica L. (Siberian apricot) exhibited the highest nucleotide identity with P. cerasifera Ehrh. (Cherry plum), contrary to conventional morphological systematics of apricots. Additionally, the plastomes of hybrids obtained in this study supported maternal inheritance of the plastome. These results reveal the evolutionary relationship among apricots and will serve as a framework for future comparative studies on Prunus evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water kefir is a product obtained through the fermentation of sucrose solution, usually with some kind of dried fruit addition, by a combined culture of micro-organisms which are contained within kefir grains. Its popularity is rising because of the simplicity of its preparation and its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, probiotic, and antibacterial effects. In this research, the water kefir production was studied in 250 mL jars, as well as in a horizontal rotating tubular bioreactor (HRTB). The first part of the research was conducted in smaller-scale (jars), wherein the optimal fruit and fruit portions were determined. These experiments included the addition of dried plums, apricots, raisins, dates, cranberries, papaya, and figs into 150 mL of initial sugar solution. Also, the optimal ratio between dried fruit and sucrose solution (0.2) at the beginning of the bioprocess was determined. The second part of this research was conducted using HRTB. The experiments in the HRTB were carried out by using different operational modes (constant or interval bioreactor rotation). A total of six different bioreactor setups were used, and in all experiments, figs were added at the beginning of the bioprocess (0.2 ratio between dried figs and sucrose solution). On the basis of the obtained results, the interval bioreactor rotation mode proved to be the better HRTB mode for the production of the water kefir, as the yield of the main fermentation products was higher, and their ratios were the most adequate for the quality of water kefir drink. The optimal results were obtained via HRTB setup 3/57 (3 min rotation, 57 min pause within 1 h) and rotation speed of 3 rpm. Furthermore, it is clear that HRTB has great potential for water kefir production due to the fact that HRTB experiments showed shorter fermentation times (at least five times) than water kefir production in jars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruit aroma of Japanese apricot is distinct, and the specific volatile compounds are not clearly known during fruit development and during post‐harvest stage. This study therefore aimed to explore the volatile compounds present during these stages. The volatile compounds were analysed by headspace solid‐phase microextraction and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. OAV, PCA and electronic nose techniques were used to determine the characteristic aroma components. Enzyme‐linked immunoassay (ELISA) was also applied to determine the activity of enzymes. The results showed that in the cultivars 'Xiyeqing' a total of 52 components that included 20 terpenes, 15 aldehydes, 9 esters, 3 ketones and 5 other substances were detected during fruit development and post‐harvest stage. While in the cultivar 'Xiaoyezhugan' a total of 49 components that included 25 terpenes, 7 aldehydes, 11 esters, 1 alcohol, 3 ketones and 2 other substances were also detected during fruit development and post‐harvest stage. We concluded that the characteristic volatile compounds of mature Japanese apricot fruit were (+)‐limonene, linalool, damascenone, β‐damascenone and nonanal, finding the basis for the fruity, floral and sweet aroma of the Japanese apricot fruit. Further analysis indicated that low temperature inhibited the synthesis of esters and terpenes, and dark conditions were more favourable to the synthesis of volatile compounds than light conditions. Short‐term storage of Japanese apricot fruit at room temperature and dark conditions was conducive for the maintenance of volatile compounds, and low‐temperature storage was the most destructive to the fruit volatile compounds. These findings form a theoretical foundation for exploring the specific volatile compound of Japanese apricot and helped to determine the optimal storage condition of post‐harvest stage for Japanese apricot fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Red apricot (Prunus spp.) and Black Fig (Ficus carica L.) are two of the most commonly grown summer fruits in the Nakhchivan region. In this preliminary study, ethanol fruit extracts were compared based on their total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant properties. According to the Folin-Ciocalteu method, the TPC was found to be 176.20 mg GAE/100 g in red apricot and 45.30 mg GAE/100 g in fig. Their antioxidant capacities were assessed using 2,2-Diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity. The scavenging activity, identified as the concentration of ethanol extract needed to scavenge half of the radicals (SC50), was determined to be 3.52 mg/mL for red apricot and 6.46 mg/mL for fig. Based on these two biological activity assays, red apricot exhibited higher phenolic composition and radical scavenging activity. However, further studies are required to understand whether these differences are attributed to secondary metabolites in these fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable and recycled materials are being used in a wide range of fields to solve a waste management problem and, at the same time, to confer them a second life. These materials include fruit stones of different crops: apricot, peach, cherry and olive. Employing fruit stones as acoustic materials contributes to minimise the environmental impact and to create a new product with interesting sound-absorption properties, apart from offering aesthetic added value. Some previous works have demonstrated the application of fruit stones panels as sound absorbers. This study aims to determine the acoustic properties of boards manufactured with a mixture of the four above fruit stone types. A coconut fibre layer is added to compare the results with and without coconut fibre. The experimental results show that acoustic properties improve by increasing board thickness and the sound-absorption coefficient is higher when a coconut fibre layer is added. Sound transmission loss is not significantly affected by adding the coconut fibre layer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crown gall is one of the most dangerous bacterial diseases affecting the production of fruit tree nurseries in Egypt and many countries of the world. In the present study, ten isolates of 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) deaminase-producing rhizobacteria were isolated from the rhizosphere of apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) and plum (Prunus domestica L.) trees to evaluate their ability to decrease tumor formation by Agrobacterium tumefaciens (synonym Rhizobium radiobacter). The ten isolates were identified as Pseudomonas strains based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis and deduced protein sequences obtained from a partial ACC deaminase structural gene (acdS) sequence. Co-inoculating castor bean (Ricinus communis L.) and kalanchoe (Kalanchoe sp.) plants with A. tumefaciens and four ACC deaminase-producing Pseudomonas isolates decreased tumor formation. However, six ACC deaminase-producing Pseudomonas isolates produced varying results in these two plant species. The results showed that isolates of Pseudomonas vancouverensis reduced tumor formation when co-inoculated with A. tumefaciens in castor bean and kalanchoe plants. However, the isolate P. putida inhibited tumor formation in castor bean plants but did not achieve the same effect in kalanchoe plants. Additionally, isolates of P. frederiksbergensis and P. kilonensis decreased tumor formation in kalanchoe plants while increasing tumor formation in castor bean plants. The results showed that ACC deaminase-producing P. vancouverensis is a promising biocontrol agent against A. tumefaciens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

'Shlor-Tsiran' (literally called 'Plum-Apricot') is an old black apricot cultivar, which is traditionally cultivated in Armenia. Taxonomically, it belongs to Prunus × dasycarpa Ehrh., which is a spontaneous hybrid of apricot and cherry plum (P. armeniaca L. × P. cerasifera Ehrh.). Currently, 'Shlor-Tsiran' is considered to be very rare in Armenia and it occurs as single trees in old home orchards of the Ararat Valley. It is characterised by high frost and disease resistance, late flowering and fruiting compared with other cultivated apricots, and is of interest for the development of apricot cultivars displaying delayed fruit ripening and enhanced frost resistance. This study aims to phenotype the cv. 'Shlor-Tsiran' taking into consideration 67 quantitative and qualitative characteristics of vegetative and generative organs, growth and development. Morphological description of the cv. 'Shlor-Tsiran', comparing with its parent species, P. armeniaca and P. cerasifera, was performed. Data on fertility and viability of pollen grains, biochemical and nutritional properties of fruits and tree productivity are provided. The data obtained should contribute to a wider use and conservation of the black apricot cv. 'Shlor-Tsiran' gene pool, which can be used for breeding purposes as well. The article is illustrated with tables and original photographs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of this study was to monitor apricot development and ripening through gene expression analysis of key candidate genes using the RT-qPCR technique. Eight apricot cultivars were selected to analyze phenological and genetic patterns from pre-ripening stages through to postharvest. In addition, 19 selected genes were analyzed in the contrasting cultivars 'Cebas Red' and 'Rojo Pasión' in different stages (two preharvest stages S1 and S2, one harvest stage S3, and two postharvest stages S4 and S5). This pool of genes included genes related to fruit growth and ripening, genes associated with fruit color, and genes linked to the fruit's nutraceutical aspects. Among the studied genes, Polygalacturonase (PG), Pectin methylesterase (PME), Aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate synthase (ACS), and Myo-inositol-1-phosphate synthase (INO1) were directly related to fruit maturation and quality. Significant differential expression was observed between the cultivars, which correlated with variations in firmness, shelf life, and sensory characteristics of the apricots. 'Rojo Pasión' displayed high levels of PG, associated with rapid maturation and shorter postharvest shelf life, whereas 'Cebas Red' exhibited lower levels of this gene, resulting in greater firmness and extended shelf life. Genes CCD4, CRTZ, and ZDS, related to carotenoids, showed varied expression patterns during growth and postharvest stages, with higher levels in 'Rojo Pasión'. On the other hand, Sucrose synthase (SUSY) and Lipoxygenase (LOX2) were prominent during the postharvest and growth stages, respectively. Additionally, GDP-L-galactose phosphorylase (VTC2_5) was linked to better postharvest performance. This research provides valuable insights for future breeding initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality and sustainability of apricot cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate, fast and lightweight dense target detection methods are highly important for precision agriculture. To detect dense apricot flowers using drones, we propose an improved dense target detection method based on YOLOv8, named D-YOLOv8. First, we introduce the Dense Feature Pyramid Networks (D-FPN) to enhance the model's ability to extract dense features and Dense Attention Layer (DAL) to focus on dense target areas, which enhances the feature extraction ability of dense areas, suppresses features in irrelevant areas, and improves dense target detection accuracy. Finally, RAW data are used to enhance the dataset, which introduces additional original data into RAW images, further enriching the feature input of dense objects. We perform validation on the CARPK challenge dataset and constructed a dataset. The experimental results show that our proposed D-YOLOv8m achieved 98.37% AP, while the model parameters were only 13.2 million. The improved network can effectively support any task of dense target detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It has been proven that natural apricot gum and the functional sour milk drink "Narine" fermented by L. helveticus MDC 9602, possess health-promoting and healing properties. The combined use of L. helveticus and apricot gum in dairy fermentation can create a new functional product with enhanced healing and organoleptic properties. Objective: To create a new functional fermented milk product by combining Apricot gum (AG) and L. helveticus, with improved health-promoting and sensory properties. Methods: For joint fermentation, 0.125%, 0.25%, 0.5%, and 1.0% of raw AG were dissolved in milk preheated to 60°C, pasteurized at 85°C for 15 minutes, and cooled to 45°C. Subsequently, the samples were inoculated with L. helveticus culture at a concentration of 5% and incubated at 37°C. The clotted samples were then transferred to 5°C for ripening. Analysis of the samples was carried out at 1, 14, and 28 days of storage. Antioxidant capacity was determined by the DPPH-scavenging assay. The total phenolic content and total flavonoid content were quantified by the Folin-Ciocalteu and AlCl3 colorimetric methods, respectively. Results: Apricot gum significantly stimulates the growth of the probiotic L. helveticus starter culture in microbiological medium and in milk. The stimulation of L. helveticus growth leads to a significant increase in the rate of coagulation and acidification of milk, improving the consistency and viscosity of Narine. The addition of AG extends the shelf life of the product in refrigerated storage, maintains a high viability count of the starter culture, and reduces syneresis and acidification. AG also significantly increases the antioxidant activity, which correlates with the viable cell count of L. helveticus. A synergistic increase in the viscosity of milk enriched with AG was discovered, depending on the degree of acidification. Conclusions: The high total phenolic content plays a key role in the biological activity of raw apricot gum. Most of the AG-induced changes, such as increased milk coagulation rate, enhanced antioxidant activity, and improved acidity, were found to be due to the promotion of starter culture growth. Raw AG can be used to increase the yield of bioactive peptides in LAB cultures and to improve the functional and sensory properties of yogurts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document serves as a diagnostic protocol for Aromia bungii, commonly known as the red necked longhorn beetle. The beetle is originally from East Asia but has been introduced to Japan and Europe. It primarily infests Prunus species and is identified through signs such as larval frass accumulation, exit holes, and the presence of adults. Molecular tests are recommended for identification, especially when morphological examination is not possible. The document also provides a description and identification guide for Aromia bungii, including information on other similar species and details on larvae differentiation. It emphasizes the use of molecular methods for confirmation, particularly in new outbreaks, and offers guidelines for reporting and documentation. The document acknowledges the contributions of various individuals and organizations in its development and provides reference material and sequences for further research. [Extracted from the article]

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A new aphid species infesting apricots (Prunus armeniaca L.) was identified for the first time in 2016 in Europe. The invasive aphid was assigned to the species Myzus mumecola (Matsumura, 1917). The species is native to India and East Asia, and it was found to be highly invasive and is currently spreading throughout Europe. Records were confirmed for Italy, Hungary, Serbia, and Germany. For a phylogenetic analysis, wingless (apterae) adults were sampled in spring 2022 in Italy, as well as in Austria and Germany in spring 2023. Our study reports the first record of M. mumecola for Austria. In all three countries, the new pest caused heavy infestations overall in organically managed apricot orchards. Aphids were identified morphologically based on external characteristics, and damages were compared to those reported in the literature. COI and 12S barcoding analyses for aphid samples from Italy, Germany, and Austria were performed to attain a molecular characterization of sampled specimens and to confirm the morphological identification. Only a few COI sequences of M. mumecola were present in NCBI GenBank or BOLD Systems, and no sequences were available for 12S. Therefore, the results provide a deeper insight into the phylogeny of this spreading pest insect. The results of the COI barcoding showed no differences between the sampled populations and other M. mumecola populations from Europe and Japan, while reports from China showed significant differences. All 12S sequences showed no variability between populations from Austria, Germany, and Italy. A phylogenetic analysis of COI and 12S sequences with sequences from other aphid species from NCBI GenBank or sampled in Italy revealed a close relationship of this species with the damson‐hope aphid, Phorodon humuli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dependencies of the electrophysical characteristics of nanoporous carbon material (NCM) on the compaction degree of its particles have been investigated in the presented study. It has been found that the maximum value of the electrical conductivity is achieved at a pressure of 2.5 MPa. Furthermore, it has been revealed that the formation of O-compounds on the surface of the studied materials leads to a decrease in electrical conductivity. The correlation between structural-adsorption and electrical-conductive properties of NCMs has been established. Moreover, it has been demonstrated that an increase in the amount of potassium hydroxide results in a decrease in electrical conductivity due to the breakdown of small carbon particles and an increase in contact resistance, while the specific surface area enlarges due to the development of porosity and an increase in the total pore volume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cold-pressed oils are rich sources of bioactive substances, which may protect triacylglycerols from degradation during frying. Nevertheless, these substances may decompose under high temperature. This work considers the content of bioactive substances in blends and their changes during high-temperature heating. Blends of refined rapeseed oil with 5% or 25% in one of three cold-pressed oils (rapeseed, coriander and apricot) were heated at 170 or 200 °C in a thin layer on a pan. All non-heated blends and cold-pressed oils were tested for fatty acid profile, content and composition of phytosterols, tocochromanols, chlorophyll and radical scavenging activity (RSA) analyzed by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) assays. Moreover, the stability of phytosterols, tocochromanols, DPPH and ABTS values was determined in heated blends. All tocochromanols were lost during the heating process, in particular, at 200 °C. However, there were some differences between homologues. α-Tocopherol and δ-tocopherol were the most thermolabile and the most stable, respectively. Phytosterols were characterized by very high stability at both temperatures. We observed relationships between ABTS and DPPH values and contents of total tocochromanols and α-tocopherol. The obtained results may be useful in designing a new type of fried food with improved health properties and it may be the basis for further research on this topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As global biodiversity hotspots, wild fruit forests play key ecological functions, providing essential ecosystem services such as carbon storage, soil retention, and water conservation, and support food chains and biodiversity conservation through key species. Climate change, with rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns, threatens wild fruit forests by reducing the habitats and numbers of key species, potentially turning these ecosystems from carbon sinks to sources and diminishing overall biodiversity and ecosystem services. However, research on how these changes affect important species' habitats and carbon dynamics remains insufficient. To address this, we analysed habitat suitability for three important species (Prunus armeniaca L., Malus sieversii, and Prunus ledebouriana (Schltdl.) Y.Y.Yao with the aim of informing conservation strategies. We used biomod2 to integrate environmental and species data using six methods, encompassing 12 models. We predicted overlapping geographical distributions of three species, analysing their ecological niches and environmental interactions using global datasets to understand their adaptations. This analysis revealed ecological niche shifts and reductions in resource utilisation in both current and future scenarios. Their distribution centres will move poleward under the influence of bioclimatic factors and human activities. In conclusion, protecting P. armeniaca, M. sieversii, and P. ledebouriana is essential for the conservation and overall health of wild fruit forest ecosystems. This study provides new insights into climate change, habitat loss, informing conservation and resilience strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current investigation delineates the application of the photochemiluminescence assay in two distinct extracts, namely hydrophilic and lipophilic, alongside the utilization of the DPPH method to quantify the antioxidative potential of five fruits belonging to the Prunus genus (sweet cherry, sour cherry, apricot, peach and plum). The findings of this study revealed that the analyzed fruit samples exhibited noticeable concentrations of phenolic compounds ranging from 31.14 ± 0.29 to 171.61 ± 0.98 mg of Gallic Acid Equivalent per 100 g of fresh weight. In reference to the flavonoid content, the observed concentrations ranged from 8.61±0.19 to 22.15 ± 0.31 mg Rutin Equivalent per 100 g fresh weight, whereas the anthocyanin content displayed concentrations ranging between 0.26 ± 0.01 and 5.26 ± 0.51 mg cyanidin-3-glucoside equivalent per 100 g fresh weight. Remarkably, the sour cherry exhibited the highest antioxidant capacity among the tested fruits in both hydrophilic and lipophilic systems, followed by sweet cherry and apricot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, compotes, juices, and jams were produced using chokeberry, cherry, apricot, peach, apple (Idared and Champion), wild strawberry, or raspberry fruits. The anticholinesterase as well as antioxidant activities of fruits and preserves (freshly prepared and after 1, 5, and 10 months of storage) were compared. The loss (p < 0.05) of the anti-acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity of freshly prepared products vs. corresponding fruits was observed (all preserves from raspberry, cherry juice and jam, apricot juice, and Idared and wild strawberry jams) while chokeberry juice and apricot compote increased the anti-AChE activity. In the case of the anti-BChE activity of freshly prepared products, no change (apricot juice and jam), the loss (chokeberry compote and jam, cherry juice and jam, Champion compote, p < 0.05), or the increase in the activity (peach and apple Idared, apricot compote, juice, apricot compote, raspberry juice, p < 0.05) were recorded. In most cases, the anticholinesterase activities of freshly prepared products vs. products stored for 10 months were retained, and no considerable losses of the biological activities were observed. Even after 10 months of storage, all of the preserves retained the anti-AChE activity (except apricot and Idared compotes, chokeberry, cherry and Idared juices, and chokeberry and apricot jams, p < 0.05). Similarly, the preserves retained the anti-BChE activity after 10 months of storage (at p < 0.05, except cherry, apricot, peach and Idared compotes, chokeberry juice and chokeberry, peach and raspberry jams, at p < 0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mango (Mangifera indica L.) is, as a king of fruit, dominating fruit in consumer point of due to its delicious taste and flavour in India. Being a largest producing country in the world, it has more than thousand varieties in biodiversity. Though, the production the production is very low as compare to other country. Hence, the study has been framed to evaluate thirteen varieties and seven hybrids of mango at ripe stage for their morphological, physical and biochemical characters were made under South Gujarat agro-climatic conditions at Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari. Improvement in mango through hybridization is a very tedious and long task as it has more than seven years of juvenile phase. For the goal oriented improvement work, systematic morphological characterization of genetic material is the basic and necessary work which is useful for the selection of parental materials in improvement program as well as identification of different varieties. The experimental results revealed that the mango varieties/hybrids expressed the morphological variations from genotype to genotype. Among these twenty genotypes, seven characters for fruit viz., fruit shape (obovoid, round, ovate, elliptical, oblong); color of ripen fruit (yellow, green with red blush, greenish yellow, bright orange, saffron yellow, apricot yellow, cadmium yellow, golden yellow); fiber content (fiberless, medium, low, high); pulp texture (intermediate, soft, firm); beak type (perceptible, pointed, mammiform); sinus type (shallow, prominent, absent) and fruit apex (obtuse, round, acute) were examined and documented. The cultivar Rajapuri had the maximum fruit weight (974.33 g), length (17.63 cm), thickness (12.73 cm), peel weight (87.77 g) while stone weight (57.57 g) was highest in cv Baneshan. The maximum content of pulp percentage was noted in cv Totapuri (89.61 %). Among the chemical parameters, the maximum total soluble solids (TSS) was recorded in cv. Kesar (21.96 °Brix). The maximum total sugars (19.34 %), reducing sugars (6.08 %), non-reducing sugars (12.88 %) and minimum titrable acidity (0.17%) were recorded in cv Alphonso. The maximum ascorbic acid content was observed in cv Langra (55.73 mg/100g). Based on the overall performance of the mango cultivars Rajapuri, Baneshan and Totapuri were found better in physical properties whereas, Kesar, Alphonso and Langra exhibited their superiority in chemical qualities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on industrial atomization devices, the efficiency of atomization and fumigation has been improved through hardware and software modifications and process design of atomization and fumigation equipment. By adding three sets of medicine and fumigant boxes and introducing a high-pressure atomization machine and an ultramicro-atomization nozzle, the diversity of the atomization and fumigation options was increased and the automatic proportioning of fumigants (ratio ranges of 1:1-1:200) was achieved. The optimal pressure of the high-pressure atomization machine 5.0 MPa, whereas the optimal mode was intermittent atomization for 75 s when an acrylic fumigation box was used. In a storage warehouse of 550 m3, the optimal pressure for the high-pressure atomization machine was 6.5 MPa, whereas the optimal operation mode was continuous atomization for 7 min, followed by natural precipitation of the fumigant natural for 3 min. The ultramicro-atomization nozzles were installed at 1 m intervals and the placement area of the specimens for atomization and fumigation were located 50 cm away from the wall of the warehouse and vertically 0.5~1.0 m below the ultramicro-atomization nozzles. Fumigation treatment with 40 mmol/L salicylate (SA) was effective in maintaining the storage quality of 'Xiaobai' and 'Saimaiti' apricots. At the end of the 7 day storage period, firmness of 'Xiaobai' apricots was 8.72 N, whereas the soluble solids (TSS) and titratable acid (TA) contents were 15.9% and 0.49%, respectively, representing 1.66-, 1.10-, and 1.58-fold increase compared to those of the control group, respectively. The decay rate was 0 after treatment with 40 mmol/L SA. The firmness of the Saimaiti apricots was 9.01 N, whereas TSS and TA contents were 13.5% and 0.67%, respectively (1.57-, 1.69-, and 1.60-fold higher than those of the control group, respectively). The decay rate was also 0 for Saimaiti apricots fumigated using SA. These results provide insights and technical support for the application of atomization and fumigation technologies in the storage and preservation of fresh apricots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apiospora is widely distributed throughout the world, and usually identified as endophytes, pathogens or saprobes. In this study, six strains were isolated from Bambusaceae sp., Prunus armeniaca, Salix babylonica and saprophytic leaves in Shandong Province, China. Three new species were identified based on a multi-locus gene phylogenetic analysis using a combined dataset of ITS, LSU, TEF1α and TUB2 in conjunction with morphological assessments. Apiospora armeniaca sp. nov., Apiospora babylonica sp. nov., and Apiospora jinanensis sp. nov. have been comprehensively described and illustrated, representing significant additions to the existing taxonomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

15 traditional handmade cheese from Changji, Xinjiang were collected to investigate the performance of cheese-derived lactic acid bacteria in fermenting apricot jam. Finally, seven strains were selected by using traditional plate marking, physiological and biochemical analysis, and 16S rDNA gene sequencing methods. The strain's safety, high soluble solids resistance, high acid resistance, and some indicators, including number of viable bacteria, total acid, and basic physicochemical indicators were analyzed before and after the fermentation. After identification, the strain YP01 belongs to Lactobacillus reuteri. Strains YP04, YP09, YP17, and YP19 belong to Weissella confusa. Strains YP11 and YP12 belong to Lactiplantibacillus plantarum. Among them, strains YP01, YP04, YP09, and YP17 have high growth activity and strong safety, while strains YP01 and YP04 have strong tolerance. The number of viable bacteria, total acids, and physiological-biochemical indicators before and after fermentation, as well as sensory quality, were measured during the fermentation of apricot jam using the above four lactic acid bacteria. The results showed that Lactobacillus reuteri YP01 was more suitable for apricot jam fermentation, followed by Weissella confusa YP04. Both of them had strong carbon source utilization capacity. Lactobacillus reuteri YP01 and Weissella confusa YP04 had the potential to ferment apricot jam, which could be used as potential fermenting strains for apricot jam fermentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The object of research is the production technology of dried apricots by the method of osmotic dehydration and the derived products that are formed in the process. An improved technology for processing the secondary product of apricot production has been proposed, which is based on increasing the osmotic pressure in the cells of plant raw materials by increasing the concentration of dry substances. The improved technology involves the use of the process of osmotic dehydration in a 70 % sugar solution with a temperature of up to 55±5 °C as an alternative to the blanching process. This provides a reduction in drying time to 1 hour due to the partial transition of water from the fruit cells into the sugar solution. The spent osmotic solution contains biologically valuable substances. The mass fraction of dry substances in the spent solution decreased by 17.4 %. It was found that spent osmotic solutions contain 15.87±0.05 mg/100 carotenoids, which cause their orange color. Color stability is likely caused by the acidity of the osmotic solution (pH=3.7±0.05). As a result of hydrolysis, sucrose, which was the main component of the osmotic solution before dehydration of apricot fruits, is partially inverted into glucose (21.41±0.05) and fructose (19.99±0.05 g/100 g). Fortified sugar had a light beige color, pure without stains and impurities, sweet taste, and aroma of apricot. The jelly-like soft drink, made on the basis of a derivative product formed during the production of dried apricots, had a sweet taste, a slight aroma of apricot. The color of the meal is cream. Light straw-colored jelly, sweet in taste, with a faint aftertaste and aroma of apricot, had a jelly-like uniform consistency that can be cut. The study showed the possibility of practical application of derived products, which are usually disposed of, for production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Prunus sibirica seeds with rich oils has great utilization, but contain amygdalin that can be hydrolyzed to release toxic HCN. Thus, how to effectively reduce seed amygdalin content of P. sibirica is an interesting question. Mandelonitrile is known as one key intermediate of amygdalin metabolism, but which mandelonitrile lyase (MDL) family member essential for its dissociation destined to low amygdalin accumulation in P. sibirica seeds still remains enigmatic. An integration of our recent 454 RNA-seq data, amygdalin and mandelonitrile content detection, qRT-PCR analysis and function determination is described as a critical attempt to determine key MDL and to highlight its function in governing mandelonitrile catabolism with low amygdalin accumulation in Prunus sibirica seeds for better developing edible oil and biodiesel in China. Results: To identify key MDL and to unravel its function in governing seed mandelonitrile catabolism with low amygdalin accumulation in P. sibirica. Global identification of mandelonitrile catabolism-associated MDLs, integrated with the across-accessions/developing stages association of accumulative amount of amygdalin and mandelonitrile with transcriptional level of MDLs was performed on P. sibirica seeds of 5 accessions to determine crucial MDL2 for seed mandelonitrile catabolism of P. sibirica. MDL2 gene was cloned from the seeds of P. sibirica, and yeast eukaryotic expression revealed an ability of MDL2 to specifically catalyze the dissociation of mandelonitrile with the ideal values of Km (0.22 mM) and Vmax (178.57 U/mg). A combination of overexpression and mutation was conducted in Arabidopsis. Overexpression of PsMDL2 decreased seed mandelonitrile content with an increase of oil accumulation, upregulated transcript of mandelonitrile metabolic enzymes and oil synthesis enzymes (involving FA biosynthesis and TAG assembly), but exhibited an opposite situation in mdl2 mutant, revealing a role of PsMDL2-mediated regulation in seed amygdalin and oil biosynthesis. The PsMDL2 gene has shown as key molecular target for bioengineering high seed oil production with low amygdalin in oilseed plants. Conclusions: This work presents the first integrated assay of genome-wide identification of mandelonitrile catabolism-related MDLs and the comparative association of transcriptional level of MDLs with accumulative amount of amygdalin and mandelonitrile in the seeds across different germplasms and developmental periods of P. sibirica to determine MDL2 for mandelonitrile dissociation, and an effective combination of PsMDL2 expression and mutation, oil and mandelonitrile content detection and qRT-PCR assay was performed to unravel a mechanism of PsMDL2 for controlling amygdalin and oil production in P. sibirica seeds. These findings could offer new bioengineering strategy for high oil production with low amygdalin in oil plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, an advanced method for apricot tree disease detection is proposed that integrates deep learning technologies with various data augmentation strategies to significantly enhance the accuracy and efficiency of disease detection. A comprehensive framework based on the adaptive sampling latent variable network (ASLVN) and the spatial state attention mechanism was developed with the aim of enhancing the model's capability to capture characteristics of apricot tree diseases while ensuring its applicability on edge devices through model lightweighting techniques. Experimental results demonstrated significant improvements in precision, recall, accuracy, and mean average precision (mAP). Specifically, precision was 0.92 , recall was 0.89 , accuracy was 0.90 , and mAP was 0.91 , surpassing traditional models such as YOLOv5, YOLOv8, RetinaNet, EfficientDet, and DEtection TRansformer (DETR). Furthermore, through ablation studies, the critical roles of ASLVN and the spatial state attention mechanism in enhancing detection performance were validated. These experiments not only showcased the contributions of each component for improving model performance but also highlighted the method's capability to address the challenges of apricot tree disease detection in complex environments. Eight types of apricot tree diseases were detected, including Powdery Mildew and Brown Rot, representing a technological breakthrough. The findings provide robust technical support for disease management in actual agricultural production and offer broad application prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Self-(in)compatibility (SI) is a genetic barrier developed by flowering plants to prevent self-pollination and promote outcrossing. SI is one of the most important traits in stone fruit breeding and particularly in apricot. Indeed, researchers focused their interests on identifying and selecting self-(in)compatible apricot parents for breeding programs and cultivars for the installation of new plantations. In this context, SI was studied in a set of 65 Tunisian apricot accessions focusing on both S and M loci targeting the genes, S-RNase, SFB, and ParMDO, with different primer combinations. The amplification of the first and the second intron of the S-RNase gene allowed the identification of nine different S alleles. The S7 allele which is reported to be present only in Southern Europe and North Africa regions was the most frequent occurring in 24 genotypes. Moreover, self-pollination tests and amplification of the SFB and ParMDO gene insertions (SC and m haplotypes) producing pollen-part mutations (PPMs) that confer self-compatibility (SC) allowed us to correlate the presence of these two independent PPMs with SC for the first time within Tunisian apricot germplasm. Overall, nine accessions were found to be self-compatible carrying at least one self-compatible haplotype. The distribution of S alleles in the analyzed accessions supported the introduction of apricot to North Africa from the Irano-Caucasian region. Moreover, the detection of the self-compatible ParMDO m haplotype in Kairouan accessions similar to Spanish cultivars confirmed gene flow between Western European and North African apricots. All these results may provide relevant information for apricot breeding and production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the total factor productivity (TFP) of the South African deciduous fruit sector over an 8-year period (2014–2021), using industry-level data for five fruit types (apples, pears, plums, apricots, and peaches). TFP growth was estimated using the Färe-Primont (FP) index and decomposed into technical change (TECH) and efficiency change (TFPE). The results show that the TFP of the industry increased by 27% (3.53% per year) due to a 35% (4.38% per year) increase in technical change, while TFPE decreased by 6% (−0.81% per year). The TFPE breakdown into technical efficiency (OTE) and scale-mix efficiency (OSME) reveals that 6% decrease in OSME was entirely responsible for TFPE slowdown, while OTE remained unchanged. While both sub-sector contributions were significant, stone fruit grew at a faster rate (32%, or 4.05% per year) than the pome sub-sector (21%, or 2.74% per year). Overall, entire industry, sub-sectors, and fruit types show that TECH was key to TFP growth, whereas TFPE slowed it. Investments in efficiency support programmes have the potential to enhance sector growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]